US ambassador says Mexican government is responsible for ensuring safety of journalists

The U.S. ambassador to Mexico has condemned attacks on journalists in the country and says it is the government's responsibility to ensure they are protected.

U.S. Ambassador Anthony Wayne said in a statement late Tuesday that he met recently with journalists and the governor from the Gulf Coast state of Veracruz at which he emphasized freedom of expression.

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A popular literary festival announced this month it would not hold its event in Veracruz after hundreds signed a petition. Press advocacy groups say at least 11 journalists have been killed and four have disappeared in Veracruz since 2010.

Wayne also noted recent incidents in Tamaulipas state, where the editor of a newspaper was attacked, and in Mexico state, where the Reforma newspaper reported an attack on one of its delivery vans.